Radical Kindness: How Customer Service Became My Love Language By Your Favorite Homegirl, Niehla O.

Niehla O. spent over 20 years in the fashion and beauty industry, but decided to pivot into an industry that can make people look good on the inside. After a chance encounter with a tasty green hummus blend, a late night craving led her to begin mixing unique hummus flavors of her own. Her goal is to continue to spread love and hummus throughout our community.

When I started Homegirl’s Hummus, I knew I was doing more than launching a food brand—I was creating a movement rooted in flavor, faith, and feeling. Every batch of hummus I make carries a story, but every interaction at our booth carries a deeper purpose. To me, customer service isn’t just good business—it’s a radical act of kindness. And in a world that often feels cold, fast, and transactional, kindness is a powerful way to slow things down and make space for humanity.

I’m Niehla O., your favorite Homegirl and the founder of Homegirl’s Hummus. And let me tell you: I take customer service personally. Not because it’s trendy or because it’s a smart marketing move (though it is)—but because I believe in honoring people. Period.

As a Black woman entrepreneur who shows up at farmers markets all over the city—rain or shine—I’ve learned that the most memorable part of someone’s visit to our booth isn’t always the hummus. It’s how we make them feel. And that feeling? That’s intentional. That’s curated. That’s radical.

Here’s why.

We Live in a World That Forgets People.

We rush. We scroll. We overlook. But when you come to my booth, I want you to feel seen. I want to know your name, your favorite flavor, and how your grandma is doing. That might seem small to some, but for me, it’s sacred. It’s saying, “I see you. You matter. You’re not invisible here.”

That’s radical in a society that often treats people—especially Black folks, women, elders, and the unhoused—as disposable. My version of customer service disrupts that.

Kindness Builds Community.

Radical kindness is how we build real relationships with our customers. It’s why people bring their babies to meet us. It’s why they drive across town for their favorite flavor. It’s why they DM us just to say, “Thank you.”

It’s because we don’t just serve hummus—we serve care. We create a joyful, affirming space in the middle of a bustling market. That kind of energy sticks with people. 

We’re Not Just Making Sales—We’re Making Memories.

I’ve had customers cry at our booth. I’ve prayed with people, hugged strangers, laughed ‘til we couldn’t breathe. Those aren’t “bonus moments”—they’re the whole point.

That’s what radical kindness looks like in action. It’s hospitality that goes beyond the product and touches the soul.

It’s Who I Am.

Before Homegirl’s Hummus, I was already someone who made people feel seen. It’s how I was raised. It’s how I walk through the world. My business just gave me a bigger platform to live out that purpose.

So yes, we have bold, tahini-free flavors and the best “Chicago Style” Hummus in the game. But ask anyone who’s shopped with us—and they’ll tell you the real secret sauce is love.

Radical, generous, joyful love.

And that’s what customer service looks like at Homegirl’s Hummus.

With flavor and favor,

Niehla O.

Your Favorite Homegirl 

Learn more about Niehla at www.homegirlshummus.com 

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